Downy woodpecker

Description:

One of the smallest true woodpecker, it takes practice to differ these birds from the larger hairy woodpecker. At a distance, look for the ratio of bill to the head Hairy woodpeckers, tend to have longer bills. This one is female, males have a red patch behind the neck.

Habitat:

these woodpeckers prefer deciduous woodlands but also thrive in urban parks.

Notes:

Downy woodpeckers are always a regular at suet feeders. Theses non-migratory species welcome the fat supplements to their diet, especially in winter.